Hong Kong has climbed to second place in the 2026 World Competitiveness Yearbook (WCY) published by the International Institute for Management Development, according to the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC). The city’s strong performance across multiple indicators underscores its institutional strengths and market efficiency, with top rankings in tax policy and business legislation, second in finance, and third in international trade, international investment, management practices, and education.
Prof Frederick Ma, Chairman of the HKTDC, stated that the WCY 2026 reaffirms Hong Kong’s competitiveness and business advantages. He noted that recent international reports also highlight Hong Kong’s achievements, including becoming the world’s fifth-largest trading entity, overtaking Switzerland to rank first globally in cross-border wealth management, and remaining among the top destinations for IPO fundraising. These developments demonstrate Hong Kong’s competitive advantages as the ‘Four Centres and One Hub’ and its role as a premier two-way springboard connecting the Chinese Mainland and international markets.
Prof Ma added that the HKTDC will continue to support the Hong Kong Special Administration Region government in aligning with the national 15th Five-Year Plan and Hong Kong’s Five-Year Plan. Leveraging the city’s strengths as a superconnector and super value-adder, the HKTDC aims to help Hong Kong integrate into and contribute to the nation’s overall development. For more details, visit the HKTDC Media Room.
The HKTDC, celebrating its 60th anniversary this year, is a statutory body established in 1966 to promote and develop Hong Kong’s trade. With over 50 offices globally, including 13 in the Chinese Mainland, the HKTDC organizes international exhibitions, conferences, and business missions to create opportunities for companies, particularly SMEs. It also provides market insights and product information via research reports and digital channels. More information is available at www.hktdc.com/aboutus.
